245 fables from a bitter pen fill this volume to overflowing. Greedy politicians, thieving doctors, not-so-pious holy men, poets, naturalists, poodles, lions, kangaroos, judges, diplomats, etc. all fall under close scrutiny in Bierce's delicious blend of sarcasm and satire. Called the 'American Swift,' Bierce is one of the greatest American humorists.